Tattoo & Pigment Removal
Cosmetic Tattoo Removal in Adelaide
Removing unwanted brow, eyeliner and lip tattooing, and why the pigments behave differently.
Cosmetic tattoo removal uses laser to break down pigment implanted during eyebrow, eyeliner or lip tattooing so the body can clear it. It differs from body tattoo removal because cosmetic pigments often contain iron oxide and titanium dioxide, which can darken on contact with laser energy. A patch test is therefore essential before any full treatment.
Cosmetic tattooing has become far more common over the past decade, and so has the need to remove or correct it. Shapes go out of fashion, pigments shift colour as they age, and work that was not well executed to begin with does not improve with time.
We treat unwanted eyebrow, eyeliner and lip tattooing, including work performed elsewhere.
Important
Cosmetic pigments frequently contain iron oxide and titanium dioxide, which can oxidise and darken instantly when treated with laser. A patch test is mandatory before any full treatment, and any practitioner willing to skip it should be avoided.
Why cosmetic pigment is harder than body ink
- Cosmetic pigments commonly contain iron oxide and titanium dioxide, which can darken on laser contact
- Colours are often blended, so a single brow may contain several pigment types behaving differently
- Placement is shallower than body tattooing, which changes the approach
- The areas involved are delicate, particularly around the eyes
- Faded old work can contain pigment that has already shifted colour over years
This is why the patch test is not optional and why we will not quote a session count before seeing how your specific pigment responds.
Removal or lightening
Not everyone wants complete removal. Many people simply want existing work lightened enough to be re-covered with a better shape or a more suitable colour.
Lightening for a cover-up generally needs fewer sessions than full removal. Tell us which outcome you are after at consultation, because it changes the plan.
Common questions
Can my eyebrow tattoo be removed completely?+
Many can be substantially cleared, but complete removal cannot be guaranteed. It depends heavily on the pigment used, its depth and how it has aged. The patch test gives the first real indication.
What if the pigment goes darker?+
Some cosmetic pigments oxidise and darken on laser contact. This is exactly what the patch test is designed to reveal before treating a whole brow, and it is manageable when identified early.
How many sessions will I need?+
It varies widely with pigment type, depth, age and colour. We give an estimate after your patch test rather than guessing beforehand.
Can I get new cosmetic tattooing afterwards?+
Usually yes, once the area has fully healed and settled. Many clients remove or lighten old work specifically to have it redone properly.
Other concerns
All treatments require an individual consultation and suitability assessment. Results vary between individuals. Information on this website is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.